Pride season in the UK starts around April and continues right through to September, so is there an actual “Pride Month”?
Officially Pride Month is in June in 2020.
Pride Month stemmed from the US, which has been adopted more widely across the world, but in reality, there are many Pride months across the globe. For instance, Sydney Mardi Gras, Australia’s biggest pride takes place in February (although they do have a Pride festival in June) and here in the UK, there isn’t such thing as one month for Pride.
In the US most prides happen in the month of June to coincide with the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, in the UK however things are a little more spread out with more and more county, city and town prides becoming available.
In 2019 the town of Llanelli in South Wales celebrated it’s first pride.
Want to know more about prides, see our entire collection of Pride articles here. Want to shop for Pride Merchandise, visit our partner retailer, THE PRIDE SHOP.
In this edition of Tom Tries It, our grooming expert Thomas Swallow goes beyond the realms of male grooming and delves into the world of at-home allergy testing. Read on to find out if they are worth all the social media hype…
Carry on reading below, to hear about Tom’s experience doing an at home allergy test. Missed the other instalments of this series? Click here to find out about Tom’s previous adventures, where he decodes the enigma of male grooming.
Firstly, I just wanted to thank the team at Lifelab Testing for making this article possible and sending over the allergy testing kit for me try. If you do decide that you wanna give one of these kits a go after reading this article, I definitely would recommend them. The kit we used for the purposes of this article was the Complete Body Test and it is by far the most comprehensive kit I’ve seen on the market, testing for 40 food & inhalant allergies and 80 common food intolerances.
So what is at home allergy testing?
Now I know what you must all be thinking, that you can only do allergy testing through your GP or in a private clinic. The fact of the matter is though, that this is a widely held misconception. Most allergy testing simply consists of a blood test and as we all know through services such as Sexual Health London, it is quite safe and easy to do a finger-prick blood test from the comfort of your own home. At home allergy testing is done under the same premise. A testing kit is mailed to your door, with easy to follow blood test instructions and within a few minutes, you’re off to the post box to send of your sample.
Why do it at home though? Surely getting our GP to do the testing for us is better?
To be honest on this one, I’d say it is probably much simpler to do this sort of testing yourself at home. Not only will the process be a lot smoother and you’ll get your results much quicker but in many cases, these tests aren’t commonly offered out by your GP. You see the NHS really only tests for allergies, when there is evidence of adverse allergic reactions but not with an identifiable cause. Often meaning that minor allergies and intolerances aren’t tested for. Not only that, the range of testing offered is much more limited on the NHS. Due to the service being publicly funded it’s simply a fact of its existence. By all means, though a private clinic would be able to arrange the same testing for you but often for a much steeper price tag. So to put it simply, do it at home and make your life that little bit easier, whilst saving some cash in the process.
How do they test for allergies/intolerances with a blood test?
This is the science bit. When our bodies come into contact with substances that we are either allergic or intolerant to, our bodies release IgG antibodies. By testing for these antibodies within our blood, we are able to identify these allergies/intolerances. The main IgG antibody tested for by Lifelab Testing is IgG4. This is the subclass of IgG antibodies, that remains in our blood when we are in constant contact with an allergen/intolerance. By testing for this antibody in particular, they are able to limit the amount of false-positives in testing and as such, make their results more reliable for their consumers. Reducing the need to cut out certain foods/food groups unnecessarily.
The results:
Within about a week or so after sending off my testing kit, my results were in and I could access them via the dashboard on the Lifelab Testing site. They came in two forms a printable/ downloadable PDF and an interactive web based page. From these results, it was identified that I had 9 allergies and 0 food intolerances. None of the allergies mentioned, had I been aware of before and to be honest, they made up a huge portion of my diet. The allergies found for myself can be seen listed below.
Just to note here, all allergies identified are graded on a scale of 1 to 5 by Lifelab Testing. All of my allergies identified were minor allergies, with Soya being the highest allergen at a level of 3.
Elimination diet:
After I received my results, I then went on to put their findings to the test by trying an elimination diet. What an elimination diet entails, is to eliminate certain foods out of your diet for a period of 30 days and see if they were indeed the cause of an issue. Having not been symptomatic of an allergic reaction prior to testing, apart from the odd skin issue. I went into this diet with the aim of seeing what/if any changes, occurred to my body over the period of 30 days. This process was supported by Lifelab Testing sending me daily email updates, with advice on cutting the allergens from my diet and making it sustainable long term.
Following the month of being allergen-free, I have to admit I did notice some small but noticeable changes. Firstly, I did not feel bloated in the slightest no matter how much I had eaten within a given day. Secondly, I was a lot more energetic in the mornings. Now, this could have been due to a number of factors but I did find I was sleeping much better on this diet. Thirdly, I stopped feeling so lethargic after doing cardio. Which had become more apparent in recent years since moving to London. Finally, I had no skin issues by the end of that month and this way by far the most prominent change, that I noticed. Having suffered with eczema on and off for about the last year, I think the allergens identified definitely played a part in my skin issues. Since cutting them out, all seems to have settled down in that area.
Final thoughts:
Overall I had a very positive experience doing an at-home allergy testing kit and I cannot thank Lifelab Testing enough for giving me the opportunity to do so. The testing kits themselves aren’t the cheapest things in the world but they are far cheaper than going to a private clinic for the same tests. So if you are in doubt about an allergy/intolerance or just feel like knowing a bit more about your body, I would definitely recommend giving these tests a go. For more information on the testing kit I did or about Lifelab Testing, please check out their website https://lifelabtesting.com/
When was Billie Trix – the fictional Diva of Divine Degradation – first unleashed in public? Why, 9/11/01 of course, the purrfect date of birth for a one-woman assault on all known taste! How could I possibly forget? Furiously pumped by the blistering, raw nasal ecstasy of prime, Cordon Bleu coke, I had no idea that evening’s Closer to Heaven press night – Billie’s media premiere – would soon expose me to the sizzling incandescence of the then-unknown and uncrowned Queen of Cunt Rock!
Was I up for it? Oh Christ, yes – I’d just spent an outrageously erotic, Rocky Horror night with my then-partner, and utterly fucked from drugs, sexual excess and a huge plate of restorative pasta, I crashed comatose for hours. Bad move – I woke to 71 missed voice messages screeching World War Three was game on, was happening, the World Trade Centre and Pentagon both savaged by kamikaze terrorists.
An ultimate wake-up call? For sure – nothing grabs your attention faster than indiscriminate, random slaughter in globally-famous landmarks! Still, press nights wait for no-one – neither queen nor transdiva – so Billie Trix’s first, ferocious draft scorched our spectacularly heightened senses with a contact high worthy of Dietrich screwing Madonna!
Sure, public decorum cancelled the scheduled after-party, but not the impromptu shag-a-thon spontaneously erupting at the Shadow Lounge, all blatant public sex and delirium; Frankly, there’s nothing like terrorist death-threats to kick-start libidos and make Viagra instantly redundant!
So, can lightning strike twice? Never doubt it! Even in Closer To Heaven, Billie’s role screamed out for total exposure – the more warts, pudenda and used condoms the better – and, with Musik, authored by Jonathan Harvey and sound-tracked by the Pet Shop Boys, Billie finally has a solo showcase capable of killing her talent-free rivals on sight!
Musik, authored by Jonathan Harvey and sound-tracked by the Pet Shop Boys, Billie finally has a solo showcase capable of killing her talent-free rivals on sight!
Billie’s back-story? Simple – she’s an every day, utterly amoral, drug-fucked hedonist, like all unrepentant media whores; hello Michael Jackson and my darling, Catholic Pope, allegedly shockingly high on snorted Saints’ ashes! But while lazy – and unimaginative – critics cite Marianne Faithfull as Billie’s role model par excellence, she’s arguably far closer in spirit to Wendy O.Williams, deranged frontwoman of hardcore punk band the Plasmatics. And Wendy’s finest, must-read media moment? Nothing less than attempting suicide trying to hammer a kitchen knife through her sternum!
Okay, maybe Billie’s not quite that extreme, but as played by the uber-Botticellian Frances Barber reprising her iconic role, Billie instantly electrifies every susceptible cock in sight! And an appropriate air of depravity is set by the Velvet Underground’s ‘Sister Ray’, fiercely chugging away pre-show in the auditorium. Pin-sharp perfect mood music, it’s a 17(!)-minute epic of smacked-up, tranny junkies projectile puking all over their appalled johns, as they come en masse in showers of rancid spunk!
Arguably, ‘Sister Ray’ is Billie’s signature song as much as Dietrich’s ‘Falling in Love Again’, and sets our expectations sky-high. We’re not disappointed; Heart-stoppingly offensive, Billie takes no prisoners, dead, alive or in between, like a glorious, fetish-culture Joan Rivers on Crystal Meth! And gay author Jonathan Harvey pulls no punches, ramping the Amy Winehouse Bible of Pure Excess to scarcely believable, Trailer Trash on Steroids tastelessness!
Structured as a flashback memoir of Billie’s fantastically view-worthy highs – and lows – the only downside of Musik, ironically, is the Pet Shop Boys’ dreary, pompous and hollow synth-pop, and the six, stunningly banal songs – absolute masterpieces of vacuity – that punctuate the show. Cringingly, Warhol’s feted by this lyrical messterpiece; ‘Soup…won’t let you droop’, after which my mind – and pen – refused to transcribe the subsequent drivel.
Still – thank my Holy, Bleeding Jesus – there’s still Barber’s ferociously meaty, dramatic attack to relish. Briefly, Billie name-checks the famous – and infamous – she’s shared genitalia, and, more interestingly, repartee with, from Jackson Pollack, Trump to Prince Harry, and it’s here the one-liners come thick, fast and awesomely offensive.
A word of warning; dump any snowflake bigotry – and faux-sensitivity – right NOW; Jonathan Harvey’s wit is brutally eloquent. So, are you firmly strapped in? Then we’ll take a ride on the All About Eve ghost-train…“Trump’s penis?’ Billie hisses, ‘it’s shaped like a walnut whip!”, and that Lou Reed compared her clitoris to a perfect, triple bass clef’.
On a roll now, she screams she’s “such a perfectionist – I produce at least ONE note a week!’. But occasionally, even Billie needs Autotune; ‘Your voice would sound this rough if you’d sucked as many lying cocks as I have!’. Still, she’s a model of sobriety – “I haven’t touched smack since my first rehearsal this morning!’ but even so, Billie simply can’t stand Madonna; ‘That plagiarising Bitch! She copies everything!’ Now. that insult takes ferocious balls, with Madge literally playing London’s Palladium just streets away!
More hot, feisty and fearless than tranny hookers shagging football thugs, Francis Barber’s Billie Trix is simply a revelation in Musik. Think Killing Eve’s Villanelle with added singing chops and utterly insouciant, jaded attitude, and you have diva Bille Trix, the absolute, Reigning Queen of killer, kitsch cabaret! So why waste time streaming porn or Game of Thrones? The real Dragon Queen – Billie Trix – is gloriously spreading her wings right now in Soho!
‘Time & Tide’ is a tale of love in the most unexpected places.
Nemo (Josh Barrow) works at a diner but has bigger ambitions in life. He wants to move to the big city of London, to be in theatre, and to get out of his nothing town of Cromer. This is much to the dismay of his boss at the diner May (Wendy Nottingham), who encourages him to stay in their small town. But Nemo’s friend Daz (Elliot Liburd) is secretly in love with him, but of course, Daz is not going to blatantly come out and say it, though he says he just recently broker up with his girlfriend. Meanwhile, May has an admirer in Ken (Paul Easton), the bread delivery man who also is hesitant to come out and say how he really feels. But May has some other sort of secret intentions, and it’s not for Ken. So what is her secret? And will Daz finally tell Nemo how he really feels? It’s unrequited love, love that may or may not be reciprocal, in Time & Tide.
Good performances, and the lovely diner set, in the cosy small room of the Park Theatre, make this production, its premiere, one to watch. Liburd is a natural on stage, but it’s Nottingham who is memorable as the woman who has run the diner for decades, and who is considering selling up and moving away. Nottingham is just fantastic.
Jamie is 16 and is not like his friends at school. His best friend wants to be a doctor, but he wants to be a drag queen. Raised by his mum in a single-parent family on one of Sheffield’s tougher estates, Jamie finds himself, and his alter ego, Mimi Me, with the help of fading drag queen, Hugo, and with the support of his ever doting mother and her best friend. But Jamie’s difficult relationship with his dad dents Jamie’s confidence; and the school aren’t particularly enthused about the big question on everyone’s lips – namely, whether Jamie will go to the school prom, or whether Mimi Me will.
The West End smash is venturing out on a national tour, and starting its 20 venue run at its spiritual home of Sheffield Theatres. For a touring production, the presentation of the show is spot on, with a simple but versatile set and a slick and polished look and feel, as it heads out with a broadly fresh cast.
Leyton Williams (Bad Education) reprises his West End role as Jamie, and whilst his vocals were not the strongest, his portrayal of Jamie was deliciously delightful. Amy Ellen Richardson absolutely nails her two show-stopping numbers as Margaret, Jamie’s mother; and George Sampson (Britain’s Got Talent) is impressive as Dean, the school bully. But it was Shane Richie who proved to be the biggest surprise of the night, balancing a measured performance as Hugo with a flamboyant turn as Loco Chanelle, his drag alter ego.
The strength of the show lies not just in the performances, but in the excellent writing and the superb score. Beautifully blending comedy and emotion, the story is one which easily balances the comedy with genuine feeling. ‘He’s My Boy‘ is nothing short of a torch song, and the more tender moments between Jamie and his Mother nestle beautifully in the feel-good warmth of the sharp script. But there is also tremendous pop bubble-gum fun to be had with many of the musical numbers, and the choreography, characterisations and ensemble cast bring both the stage and the characters to life.
The show doesn’t re-tread the usual ground with someone struggling with their sexuality, nor about seeking acceptance from their peers. Jamie is out, proud and everyone in his life loves him, which provides a refreshing change to coming of age stories such as these. The struggle is with Jamie’s self-image and his self-belief; and of the impact of his absent and rejecting father; and is very much a story about what makes a family rather than focusing on the acceptance or otherwise of Jamie’s sexuality.
The new touring production for 2020 brings with it a vivacious burst of energy and the show remains as utterly joyful and triumphant as ever. I laughed, I cried and I cheered on multiple occasions over the show’s duration, and if you’ve not been able to catch the show in the West End, then the national tour is bringing Jamie to a theatre near you. Move aside, Blood Brothers, there’s a new standing ovation musical in town.
When you know, you know. So what’s the best way to call time on a relationship?
CREDIT: Wavebreak-Media-Ltd-bigstock
So if you’ve decided that time is up on your relationship we’ve got some suggestions on how not to make a pig’s ear out of the breakup process. Yes, it’s likely to hurt, and it’s probably going to get messy. So here’s ten tips on how not to be a douche when you dump someone.
1) Is it really over?
Are you sure? Can it be fixed or perhaps, more importantly, is it worth fixing? If it is then maybe, you need to hash it out with your partner. Have an honest discussion about your feelings. Maybe it’s worth seeing a relationship and sex therapist to help you navigate the issues you’re both facing.
2) Give an actual reason.
Don’t trot out that clichéd line, “It’s not you, it’s me”. Do you know how annoying that is? It means nothing and doesn’t help the other side have some closure. If there’s no other reason apart from the fact that you’ve fallen out of love, then say that. It can be harsh to say, but the reality of those words should hit home.
3) Quit it and don’t go back.
ARRRRGHHH. Stop playing with my heart. If the relationship is over, make sure it’s over. Don’t give the impression that things could be fixed if they can’t be.
Chat with your friends about your plans before you make that break. They may have some insight or advice for you. Ultimately it’s your choice, but it doesn’t hurt to communicate what you’re feeling.
5) Think about you, but also think about him.
Remember you did once love or intensely like this guy, so be nice. Be honest and be firm. THEGAYUK’s very own Jordan Lohan suggests: “Honour the love you once had for each other by being respectful to one another during the breakup process.
Breakups don’t need to be messy if you choose for them not to be.”
6) Don’t procrastinate.
CREDIT: Minerva-Studio-bigstock
If you’ve made your decision don’t hold off until the “right moment”. Even if that means you’re going to lose money, because you’ve got a holiday coming up or theatre tickets or whatever. If you own a house together or have a huge financial commitment together, then you might need to stay together for a bit longer, once you’ve broken up, until you can sort and separate your finances.
7) Don’t feel sorry for him.
He’s not a child, and he doesn’t need your pity. Try not to feel guilty for your actions. You’re doing this for a reason, hopefully, to make you both better people! Keep focused.
8) Set out some post-bofxit (post boyfriend) rules.
Set out some simple communication rules. Only texts, only emails – or whatever works for you. Don’t get drawn into long, complicated conversations. Keep it polite and professional.
He might have a few words to say after you tell him you’re done. If he gets angry, just listen. Don’t retaliate and don’t goad. If you feel physically threatened leave. It’s only natural that if the breakup comes as a shock that he might react in an angry way.
10) Plan your exit.
Don’t rely on him to drive you home or lend you cash for a cab after breaking it off. Make sure you know what your exit plan is.
Behind the frosted glass windows and the outdoor flowers around the entrance is Xier – a restaurant that is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds – a feast so unlike any other I have ever eaten.
Entering the cosy looking restaurant on Thayer Street in Marelybone, we were led upstairs to a brightly lit room – rather posh I would say. This is where the Xier experience starts. From there we were taken on a culinary journey, led by a very knowledgeable staff who all knew what they were serving, from the exotic drinks to the even more exotic food. We were guided by them through a 10-course tasting menu accompanied by a selection of wines and cocktails chosen to enhance the food and the experience. And what an experience it was. The food was very different yet extremely delicious!
Herewith is a breakdown of the 10 course meal we had (the courses on the menu are subject to change according to seasons and what is available):
1.) French Kiss. A glass block with literally a red kiss on it, made up of passionfruit, pistachio, and fennel with Japanese pumpkin. I imagine that this is exactly what the color red tastes like if it were food. And what an explosion of taste! It’s the best kiss I’ve had all year (thankfully the year is still young!) This is served alongside:
2.) Kabocha (Japanese squash) Crispy Pancake topped with black truffles (delicate and delicious and to die for!) and chestnuts resting on a bed of pumpkin seeds (not to be eaten). It was small but sumptuous. Then came
3.) Orkney Scallop Crudo, Cured Duck with Caviar swimming in an absolutely stunning Soy Dashi (Japanese stock soup) and Malabar sauce (sprayed) served, cleverly, in a large sea shell over a bed of black rocks. And to top it off, to get the full effect of the dish, a bowl of moss is delivered with liquid nitrogen poured onto it, releasing an earthy-smelling vapour across the table, the perfect accompaniment to the rich flavours of the dish. It’s one of the many actions of the evening that is very theatrical which enhances the experience. The scallops were just divine, as was the sauce. All in all an incredible dish and perhaps one of the best dishes I have ever eaten! The scallops literally melted on my tongue and the tiny bits of black caviar were just heavenly.
4.) Rose Cured Salmon, Foie Gras, Kumquad, Yuzu and Hazelnuts topped with coriander leaves and passion fruit puree, with beetroot was next. Hard to top the scallops, this small block of salmon – one of Xier’s signature dishes – where the salmon was solid – was a extreme combination of flavors all packed into a very small portion – yet it worked very well. Next was
5.) Gyoza dumpling (consisting of edamame beans) with hints of pepper, ginger, shallots, and spring onions – to be eaten with chopsticks – and served swimming in a stunning red cabbage tea – which was so unique and flavourful that one was not enough. Bravo for this dish – it was divine.
6.) Cleanser. Time for a break from the food. A Mandarin granita with Blue Curacao sorbet in a small glass cup served on top of a bed of ice in a white glass bowl on a white glass plate was just what was needed to clear the palet for what was to come next – more incredible food!
7.) Black Cod in Caramel Miso, Walnuts, Pistachio, Celeriac & Pear. The cod was so delicious, cooked well done on the outside yet tender and moist on the inside. Xier’s second signature dish – it was beautifully cooked and served with Burnt Kiwi leaf oil and celery Pear Puree. This was preceded by the amazing
8.) British Beef Cheek and Pickled Beetroot, on top of Collard Greens and topped with Bone Marrow. The Beef – sourced from the UK – was tender, moist, and literally falls apart on the dish and on your fork. And the red wine grapes au jus is just icing on the beef – the best beef I’ve had in many years. This was the last of the main courses and it was a high to top all highs!
9.) Swedish Cheese and Fresh Fizzy grapes were a nice delicate touch to wind down the meal. This is served alongside small ginger bread snaps with three jellies that consisted individually of white wine, red wine and walnut & pear. So many tastes – your taste buds will thank you!
10.) The final course was, of course, dessert, called Sweet Pleasure on the menu. And these were normal portions, but we realized bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. Four desserts were delivered to our table – Chocolate passionfruit Mousse (funny looking but with delicious banana crips); very good banana ice cream; an unusual chestnut parfait on a bed of blackcurrant sauce with mandarin segments and topped with a nice hazelnut cracker; and a small slice of pear cake. The mousse wasn’t our cup of tea, it didn’t have a great taste, and the pear dish was too sugar-coated, but credit is given for the mousse – it was unusual, unique, and visually appealing.
Drinks come at price – of course. You can choose to have the wine & Cocktail Pairing for an additional £85 or alternatively the Deluxe Wine Pairing at £190 extra, or better yet just order drinks from the drinks menu separately. One drink I recommend is the Mango Tiki served in a pineapple tin cup. Mouth watering with rum, papaya, mango with orange juice and topped with Mango foam. Stay away from the Apricot Tai – too too sweet. Of course Xiers’ wine list is very very extensive – too many to mention here, but my dining companion had a Vodkatini – which he very much enjoyed – as well as a few glasses of wine which were all very very fine, even though the pour was small.
In each and every bite of the food we can taste the hard work done in the kitchen to prepare, cook, and serve all these amazing dishes. Xier, the first solo venture from Italian Chef Carlo Scotto – has rewritten the rules on fine dining with Xier. The menu is from his culinary experiences, with aspects of his travels through Europe, Scandinavia and especially Japan, which you can tell had a huge influence on his skills as a chef.
I had commented to my dining companion about halfway through our meal that I felt the courses were too small and that I would probably need more food on the way home, well that was not the case after the tenth course. We both were comfortably full and were just taken aback with the whole experience.
Open for only one year, the room has clean lines, is very minimalist, stylish yet very much on the quiet side, with the excellent staff hovering about to make sure you know what you are eating. They do explain, in lots of detail, when the food is delivered what you are about to eat, otherwise you’d have no idea. Downstairs is XR, which offers prestige A-La-Carte dining. So it’s up to you to decide what you prefer. But the ten course tasting menu is just absolutely divine, and worth every penny of the £95 you will be charged. And with this menu being changed from time to time – it will be interesting to know what type of dishes Scotto will be dreaming up next. But guaranteed they will be amazing and out of this world.
When you’re planning an international relocation as a member of the LGBT+ community, there are additional things to think about besides job opportunities, housing prices and public transport. LGBT rights can vary greatly from country to country, and even within regions that are ostensibly friendly towards LGBT+ people, you can still find some cities more welcoming than others.
If you’re getting restless and looking for your next big adventure, the good news is there are plenty of amazing cities all over the world that are as LGBT-friendly as they are a winning expat pick. To help inspire and inform you, here are ten of the best.
1. Berlin, Germany
Germany scores highly in a number of expat living charts, known as a country that offers a high quality of life, economic stability and a good level of disposable income. The capital city, Berlin, happens to also be a lively and artistic LGBT+ haven.
Pride weeks every summer and an impressive range of gay nightlife spots are just the tip of the iceberg in Berlin, an incredibly liberal city that is known for its ever-changing street art and innovative vegan cuisine. Often described as one of Europe’s most tolerant cities, this is a place where you can truly be yourself, no matter who you are or how you identify.
Germany protects the rights of LGBT+ citizens in work and in housing, as well as in marriage, adoption and other crucial areas, and Berlin is a vibrant hub for the community.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark was the first country in the world to legalise same-sex partnerships, and is described by Lonely Planet as being the ‘most gay-friendly place on earth’. Within that, Copenhagen boasts Europe’s oldest openly gay bar, and the city’s slogan is ‘Love of freedom, freedom to love.’
Soon to be the host of WorldPride in 2021, expats moving to Copenhagen can expect a great work-life balance as well as a warm welcome. Denmark is also a country which prides itself on sustainability, as well as inclusivity, so if you’re working on your carbon footprint this could be the choice for you.
3. San Francisco, USA
You may already be familiar with the Castro District, which is known as one of the first-ever openly gay neighbourhoods in the USA. That’s just one part of this colourful LGBT+ hotspot, where you can see rainbow crosswalks and monuments to icons like Harvey Milk.
San Francisco remains one of America’s most forward-thinking cities to this day, and while not every city in the USA is equal, this is one destination where you can feel confident your rights as an LGBT+ individual will be upheld and defended.
While life in San Francisco can be expensive, wages are also higher than you’ll find in other major cities – and with the city playing home to a melting pot of expats from all over the world, you’re sure to find a way to fit right in.
4. Santiago, Chile
Chile might not be the first place that springs to mind when you’re contemplating an international relocation as an LGBT+ person. However, Santiago has come a long way since the turn of the millennium, and the city now offers a strong LGBT+ culture and an impressive host of gay venues and events to enjoy.
Lauded by some as the LGBT+ capital of South America, Santiago offers ample opportunity for expats looking to teach English, provided you have a reasonable understanding of the Spanish language. It’s a safe city with a low cost of living, surrounded by beautiful scenery and offering great public transport.
5. Gran Canaria, Spanish Canary Islands
The gay scene in Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles is hard to beat wherever in the world you might look. With numerous Pride festivals taking place throughout the year, this is already a number one vacation destination for gay travellers from all over the world – but it’s also a good spot if you’re planning on a permanent relocation.
If you can pin down a job contract lasting a minimum of three months, you can get fully-fledged resident status in Gran Canaria without much trouble. Though you’ll need to organise your own global healthcare plan in the meantime, as Spain does not provide free healthcare for non-residents. Despite this, settling in permanently is relatively easy compared to most destinations.
6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam is famous all over the world for being a city which accepts and promotes ‘fringe’ lifestyles in many forms, so it should come as no surprise to hear that it’s also a destination proud to support and champion LGBT+ people.
In addition to regular Pride events, thriving gay nightlife venues and a host of resources and organisations that newcomers to the area can take advantage of, Amsterdam also offers easy cultural acclimatising for western expats. With English widely spoken, job opportunities in a range of industries, and late-opening shops and restaurants, adjusting to a new life in the Netherlands shouldn’t be a struggle.
7. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland was the first country in the world to elect an openly gay head of state, and was one of the first places to legalise same-sex partnerships and marriages. Not just a country which fiercely defends the equal rights of all inhabitants, regardless of sexual orientation or gender, Iceland is also known for its stunning scenery and frequent opportunities to witness the Northern Lights.
Reykjavik, in particular, offers an incredibly high quality of life to its residents, with a low unemployment rate and booming tourism sector. Register for free with an employment agency to have the best chance of securing a role before your move.
8. Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand is proud to have been the country which elected the world’s first out transgender MP, Georgina Beyer, as well as having continuously elected a steady stream of out and proud MPs to parliament in the last few decades.
While Auckland’s LGBT nightlife scene isn’t as loud and lively as some cities on this list, local attitudes to the community are such that venues simply don’t feel the need to segregate themselves, in many cases. You’ll find a safe and welcoming night out regardless of whether a bar is labelled as LGBT+ or not.
New Zealand appeals to many expats because of its natural beauty, from volcanoes and beaches to rainforests and waterfalls. Move to Auckland and you’ll find a thriving economy with diverse employment opportunities, from fin-tech and software companies to jobs in hospitality.
9. Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp Pride attracts around 50,000 visitors each year, hardly a surprise in a country which has always been at the forefront of defending LGBT+ rights. This cosmopolitan city has been multicultural for centuries, and remains a welcoming hub for expats moving from all over the world.
Half of the population here speaks at least three languages, so while it’s a good idea to fine-tune your language skills in order to truly feel like a local, you can get along by speaking English and/or Dutch alone.
10. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary are all incredibly popular destinations with expats who are looking for good job opportunities and a great quality of life. Across this tolerant country, it’s hard to pick the best LGBT+ destination, but Vancouver, in particular, is a brilliant choice if you’re keen to find a growing LGBT community where you can easily settle in.
Described by Conde Nast Traveller as ‘Canada’s most gay-friendly city’, Vancouver is also a safe and spacious city that puts you a stone’s throw from beautiful natural sights and boundless outdoor activity opportunities. The best known ‘gay neighbourhood’ is Davie Village, but you’ll find it’s safe to be yourself wherever in the city you choose to move.
Sex Education is about Otis Milburn, a socially awkward high school student who lives with his sex therapist mother, Jean.
In season 1 Otis and his friend Maeve Wiley set-up a sex clinic at school to capitalise on his intuitive talent for sex advice.
In season 2, as a late bloomer, Otis must master his newly discovered sexual urges in order to progress with his girlfriend Ola whilst also dealing with his now strained relationship with Maeve.
Meanwhile, Moordale Secondary is in the throes of a Chlamydia outbreak, highlighting the need for better sex education at the school and new kids come to town who will challenge the status quo.
Maeve and Aimee’s BFF relationship is stronger than ever since Aimee ditched ‘the Untouchables’.
Eric notices his new-found self-confidence attracting unfamiliar kinds of attention.
Adam is at military school, still conflicted by his feelings for Eric.
Lily has hit pause on her sexual endeavours to focus on her creative talents and finds a newfound friend in Ola.
Jackson is forced to flex his mental rather than physical muscle and is still buckling under the pressure from his parents to succeed.
Jean and Jakob’s relationship is discovered and they have to learn how to operate as a blended family. Jean forms an unlikely connection with Mrs Groff and a friendship between the two women begins to form.
When does the new season of Sex Education start on Netflix?
The good news is that it has already started!
Sex Education will return to Netflix with 8 brand new episodes in 2020.
The series is written and created by Laurie Nunn and produced by Eleven. Season 2 is directed by Ben Taylor, Alice Seabright and Sophie Goodhart. Jamie Campbell, Laurie Nunn and Ben Taylor are also Executive Producers on the series.
Who stars in Sex Education on Netflix?
The series stars Asa Butterfield (Ender’s Game, Hugo), Gillian Anderson (The Crown, The Fall), Emma Mackey (The Winter Lake, Eiffel, Death on the Nile), Ncuti Gatwa (Stonemouth, The Last Letter From My Lover), Connor Swindells (The Vanishing, VS), Aimee Lou Wood (Louis Wain), Kedar Williams-Stirling (Will, Roots, Wolfblood), Chaneil Kular (Informer), Simone Ashley (Broadchurch), Mimi Keene (Tolkien, Close), Tanya Reynolds (Emma, Delicious), Mikael Persbrandt (Invisible Heroes, The Girl in the Spider’s Web, The Hobbit, King Arthur), Patricia Allison (Les Miserables, Moving On), Jim Howick (Broadchurch), Rakhee Thakrar (Four Weddings and a Funeral), Samantha Spiro (Game of Thrones, Tracey Ullman’s Show, Babs, Doctor Who), James Purefoy (Rome, Altered Carbon) and Alistair Petrie (Deep State, Rogue One, Night Manager).
After years of marriage, coming out as gay, when you’re married and with children could have legal repercussions. We asked Stephanie Kyriacou and Matt Parr, associates at law firm Shakespeare Martineau, to outline what happens next.
At the start of February, television personality Phillip Schofield revealed that he is gay. His announcement has been hailed as a powerful move that may have given many others in a similar position the courage to come out. However, it also works as a reminder that there are no rules when it comes to navigating the complexities that this emotional time can throw up, especially in terms of family and finances.
Coming out can bring a host of challenges, and in the midst of an already intense period of time, many people may not immediately consider the wider implications. Particularly for those who, like Phillip Schofield, choose to come out later in their lives, tricky conversations around finances and estate planning may arise sooner than expected. However, whilst this may seem a difficult topic to discuss communicating with family and friends can reduce the risk of family conflict and ensure that loved ones are safeguarded for the future.
Stephanie Kyriacou and Matt Parr, associates at law firm Shakespeare Martineau, detail the main steps to consider when coming out in later life.
Get your ducks in a row
Coming out can be daunting enough, but if you’re unsure of how your family and friends will react, the process can feel quite overwhelming. Before telling a partner or family members, it is sensible to consider your current financial and legal arrangements, including your existing will and powers of attorney. Equally, you may wish to speak to an adviser ahead of time and discuss the next steps if things were to rapidly go downhill, this would then allow changes to quickly be made to safeguard your interests.
Your family might be shocked or find it difficult to accept your news at first, though it is important to remember that their first reaction isn’t necessarily how they will always feel – they may just need some time to process what you’ve told them. With this in mind, it is important to not make any rash decisions. There may be discussions to be had from both a financial and a personal perspective in terms of where you go from here. Every couple is unique, some may feel that it is best to separate and file for divorce, while others may be open to the idea of staying together and living as companions.
Under UK law, adultery can only occur between members of the opposite sex. Therefore, should either partner decide that they do not wish to stay in the marriage and on the basis they had not been separated for 2 years or more, they would need to issue a divorce application on the grounds of their spouse’s unreasonable behaviour. Under these circumstances, the person making the application must show that the other party has behaved in such a way that they cannot reasonably be expected to live with him or her, and that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.
In these situations, it is advisable to take specialist advice from an accredited family lawyer, who can promote a constructive and non-confrontational approach, often resulting in a far better outcome for all involved. Resolution is a useful starting point to find local accredited experts.
For those divorcing without children, the process can be very simple, focusing mostly on the division of assets such as money, property and investments. However, a divorce involving children can be far more complicated and often requires arrangements for maintenance payments, as well as provisions to be made to safeguard the children’s futures.
Looking to the future
CREDIT: Natasha_from_Russia-bigstock
Should the point come where a new relationship is formed, it may be important to ensure that children from the first marriage are provided for.
Financial arrangements which can protect assets owned prior to living with a new partner can be set out in a cohabitation agreement, therefore ensuring transparency around who owns what. Similarly, should you decide to remarry, a prenuptial agreement is advisable as it will allow you to outline the assets brought into the marriage as well as those that are to be kept separate.
By securing the right expert advice, keeping lines of communication open and allowing time for your loved ones to accept your news, coming out can be the start of an exciting new chapter.
Volvo are on full assault for every market they can reach with their current range of saloons, estates and SUV’s. Their keyword is premium and they arrived here quite quickly. Very soon they are to be joined by their premium Polestar brand that’s above premium with prices to match.
In the meantime, I’m here with their XC60 T6 R-Design AWD from their SUV range. It’s a petrol 4 cylinder producing 310bhp mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Quite often you’ll find motoring journalists bemoan about the lack of difference, if any, between the drive modes. The XC60 gives you five. Eco, Comfort, Individual, Dynamic and Off Road. All five feel different and the last two offer notable differences in road height.
The difference comes at a cost and it isn’t perfect. Comfort is your standard set up though with the plethora of onboard options and set-ups Volvo gives you, any of the drive modes can be set as your preferred reset choice the moment you turn the ignition key.
I’ll start with the niceties first and that’s the ride. Body control is controlled well. In Comfort mode, you will have little problem with the serenity it affords you even on its largish alloy wheels. The quietness in the cab is eerily quiet like an electric vehicle. It almost makes a mockery of Volvo’s own hybrid drive systems for silent running. It becomes taught and lower in dynamic and it allows the large bulk of the XC60 to be driven with some serious gusto. And thankfully it does and you’ll discover why next.
My problem is with its T6 drive train. It kicks you all the time unless you are gentle with the throttle. Its 310bhp comes in from 5700 rpm but this isn’t where we have a problem. It’s the 400Nm of torque. It just doesn’t feel like it’s there when you press the throttle. Considering it’s available from a lowly 2200rpm, its prowess is also thwarted by a hesitant gearbox. It takes the gearbox a noticeable amount of time to respond. Dynamic mode does go some way to eradicate it but it doesn’t totally vanish. Instead, it makes it a little more snappy. The two combined don’t make for a fluidity and serenity that the XC60 gives you in its ride.
The inside is all very Volvo. The interior fit and finish are above the expected and there are nice silver accents around to lift the dark R-Design interior. I can’t really enthuse any more than I have previously about the XC60 range so I’ll go straight to another area that Volvo does really well.
The home screen of the infotainment system is pretty standard stuff. Swipe left and depending on your options, you are greeted with lots of safety equipment to switch on and off. These can be moved around to suit your own preferences for items you need to select quickly like parking assistance.
Swipe down and you get another set of options and these allow you to further adapt and personalise the vehicle set up to your requirements. These are then saved and won’t revert unless there is a system reset.
That in itself is an area many manufacturers don’t think about. There is nothing worse than setting up a car and then having to do it all again after the ignition has been switched off.
Volvo set out to make their range feel premium and many little things that further make it a car that feels like a quality product. Puddle lights set in the door handles dim down in sync with the sidelights when you lock it on the remote.
The XC60 R-Design does a lot of great things in the popular market of the sporty SUV where it seems acceptable to compromise the ride quality. The XC60, however, is more than acceptable in its ride set ups with its differences being noticeable.
It might come as a surprise that I’ve been quite harsh with handing out my stars to this XC60. Considering we gave the XC60 D4 Momentum Pro 5 stars, I just cannot rave about this XC with the T6 engine and gearbox. It doesn’t do what it says on the box and ruins an otherwise splendid vehicle.
